Description

Old-fashioned goulash is a hearty, classic comfort food that combines ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner. The tender pasta soaks up the flavorful sauce, and the savory ground beef adds depth to every bite. It’s a meal that feels like a warm hug and brings back memories of home-cooked dinners.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 can tomato sauce
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: shredded cheese for topping, fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Method

Cook the Ground Beef: Begin by browning the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain off any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

Build the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Cook the Macaroni: While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Combine Everything: Add the cooked macaroni to the skillet with the sauce and stir until everything is well combined. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the pasta to soak up some of the flavorful sauce.

Serve: Once the goulash is ready, you can serve it as is or top it with shredded cheese and fresh parsley for a bit of extra flair.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the tomato-based sauce. These ingredients bring a bit of umami to the dish and enhance the overall taste. If you prefer some heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can also liven up the flavor profile.

This old-fashioned goulash is a nostalgic, comforting dish that will quickly become a staple in your household. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pot meal that brings together savory flavors and simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying dinner. The combination of tender pasta, flavorful beef, and rich tomato sauce creates a crowd-pleasing dish that the entire family will love. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your regular meal rotation. Enjoy the timeless flavors of this beloved classic!